New name for Minardi

The outfit has been re-branded KL Minardi Asiatech in deference to Kuala Lumpur and its new engine supplier. Asiatech supplied Arrows this year, but has switched across to Paul Stoddart's team for 2002.

The link-up with Malaysia was inked by Stoddart and Malaysian prime minister Mahatir Mohamad at the weekend. "This is the next stage to promote Malaysia to the world, with Kuala Lumpur as the gateway and using motorsport as a primary vehicle," said the prime minister. "We have enjoyed marked success in building the awareness and image of our country through various racing-related programmes since 1995. Now we are turning to motorsport again to assist in direct development of inward investment by creating a platform for Malaysian companies, destinations and events to reach potential customers around the world."

Stoddart explained what Minardi plans to provide in the link-up. "We will work on a four-year programme to share equal opportunities for kids of tomorrow to see their talents in F1. Perhaps now they don't have a chance but we will have a programme to see that they are given a chance."

Minardi's links with the country were boosted this year when the team signed Malaysian company Magnum as a major sponsor. The team has also confimed that it will keep on Malaysian driver Alex Yoong for 2002 ( See separate story.)